| I’m a NS man and I have this problem of itchy soles, especially between the toe |
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Question:
I’m a NS man and I have this problem of itchy soles, especially between the toe
webs. There seems to be a foul smell too. What’s wrong with my feet?
Answer:
The symptoms described may indicate a fungal foot infection, commonly known as
Athlete’s foot.
Athlete’s foot is caused by fungi that can live and multiply on the feet. It is
more common in adults than children and is more prevalent in males than females.
The affected area may peel, crack or become scaly; in other instances, redness
and scaly blisters on the bottom and sides of the feet may be present. In both
cases, there may be itching and foul smell.
Common antifungal preparations for the skin can be used to treat Athlete’s foot
and they are available in pharmacies. The antifungal preparation should be
applied as a thin layer to cleaned, dry feet every morning and night, especially
between the toes. Treatment should continue for another 10 to 14 days after the
symptoms have disappeared to prevent a re-infection. However, should the
symptoms persist after 2 weeks of using the antifungal preparation, you should
seek medical advice.
If the toenails appear whitened and brittle, with flaking ends, the fungal
infection may have affected the toenails. In such cases, you have to see a
physician for a course of oral antifungal medicine to treat the fungal
infection.
To decrease the chances of getting Athlete’s foot, keep the feet, especially
between the toes, clean and dry. Wear socks that absorb sweat and change them
daily. Never share footwear as Athlete’s foot can be contagious. Dusting the
feet and shoes with antifungal powder can also be helpful.
If in doubt, always check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Source: Kng Kwee Keng, Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore
More information and advice can be obtained from your pharmacist. Send your
questions to sthealth@sph.com.sg.
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